Spark Point Studio provided this book to me gratis in exchange for my honest review.This novel will released to the public May 26, 2026.
Cursed
When four generations of women find themselves all returned to the family home in Faith Hills Minnesota, decades of of magic and misunderstandings will manifest. The four strong women, each with their individual story, need to come together to fight the evil lurking.
Returning Home
Katrin Blackthorn has been living abroad for more than a decade. She isn’t even sure why? But after she discovers her husband infidelity, Katrin returns to the family Queen Anne mansion to see if and where she still might fit into her strange family.
The person Katrin is looking forward to seeing the most is her sister Jasmine. They were so close as girls. But Jasmine is haunted by something unknown, and no one can reach her. Not Katrin, not their mother Ursula – known as the town’s brewer of potions, not even their grandmother Velda – the charmer of the women. Something deep and unsettling is hiding in each of these women, and now that Katrin has returned, the curse has too, and with it the snakes.
The Blackthorn Women
What is it about The Blackthorn Women, the secrets they keep, the giant Queen Anne mansion and snakes? Each women is a piece of a deep and sinister puzzle, and the unfolding of the truth makes for a gripping and magical story reminiscent of of Practical Magic, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and The Unmaking of June Farrow.
Four stars for The Blackthorn Women by Jess Lourey – out in book stores this week. Thanks for reading my book review The Blackthorn Women by Jess Lourey. See last week’s book review The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner here.
Close to Seattle, Tacoma and the Kitsap Peninsula, it’s surprising how many locals never make the trek out to beautiful Vashon Island, a little hidden gem in the South Puget Sound accessible only by ferry. It’s a perfect day trip when visiting the Pacific Northwest. Let’s talk about it! Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island.
Mount Rainier in the distance from Point Robinson
Is Vashon Hidden?
Technically Vashon is hiding in plain sight. Suspiciously un-hidden, but a bit hard to access, making it a very special gem of a get-away. Three separate Washington State Ferry routes take residents and visitors to the island, which is nestled rather conspicuously in South Puget Sound. You can hop a ferry from Fauntleroy in Seattle, Point Defiance in Tacoma, or Southworth on the Kitsap Peninsula. But once on the island, public transportation is limited, so you really should bring your car. Having a car is going to give you access to a variety of fun little gems through out the 13 mile long island. If you are a cyclist, I highly recommend cycling the island. I’ve done it end to end several times and it makes a fabulous day.
Vashon/Maury Island
Riding the ferry from Southworth to Vashon Island
A Little History
Vashon Island has a rich Puget Sound history originating with the S’Homamish people, a Coast Salish Native American people indigenous to the Pacific Northwest. The S’Homamish people historically inhabited the area around southern Vashon Island, Maury Island, the Tacoma Narrows, and what is now known as Gig Harbor.
Later the island became a renowned agricultural hub known for strawberries and a thriving Japanese-American farming community before WWII. Named by Captain George Vancouver in 1792, the island developed through logging, shipbuilding in Dockton, and eventually became a “charming, arts-focused” retreat accessible only by ferry.
Vashon was known for Strawberries for decades (Canva)
Key Historical Eras
Indigenous History: For centuries, the S’Homamish lived on the island, using its rich marine resources and hunting at the portage between Vashon and Maury Island.
European Exploration (1792): Captain George Vancouver explored the area and named the island after his friend, Captain James Vashon.
Settlement & Industry (Late 19th Century): Settlers arrived in the 1860s-1880s, establishing logging and fishing as primary industries.
The Strawberry Boom (1890-1940s): Vashon became famous for its strawberries, led by a large Japanese-American farming community that developed innovative, long-distance shipping methods.
WWII and Displacement (1942): Japanese-American families, who were integral to the island’s economy, were forced into internment camps, leaving a major mark on local history.
Modern Era: Post-war, the island transitioned from an agricultural center to a residential and artistic community, connected to the mainland via the Washington State Ferry system.
Day Trip Highlights
Today’s Vashon Island is home to about 11,000 full time residents. The population has remained steady over the past few decades due to access and land use restrictions. There are three “towns” on the island, the smaller historic town of Dockton, the very small and the larger current business center of Vashon Island (also called Uptown). We explored the following;
Point Robinson Light
The Point Robinson Light is an operational aid to navigation and historic lighthouse on Puget Sound. Located on the eastern shores of Maury Island, an easy drive from Vashon. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004 and offers great views of Mount Rainier.
Point Robinson Light
Way of The Bird King
Way of the Bird King is a public art project featuring sculptures of Nordic trolls made from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. This one (my favorite) on Vashon Island is adjacent to the Point Robinson Light and a do-not-miss on your visit. Learn more about all the Thomas Dambo Trolls in the PNW here.
Thomas Dambo’s The Way of the Bird King (and me)
Dockton & Burton
Dockton, located on Maury Island, was a major late-19th-century shipbuilding hub, home to the largest dry dock on the West Coast from 1892 to 1909. Founded due to the Puget Sound Dry Dock Company, it served the Mosquito Fleet and Pacific ships.
Burton, founded in 1910 was the home of Vashon College. Today it is primarily a residential area near beautiful Quartermaster Harbor with lovely restored homes and the historic Harbor Mercantile.
Historic Burton home
Harbor Mercantile is worth a visit
1910 Postcard of Burton shows the Vashon College in the upper right hand corner (Wikipedia)
The Country Store & Farm
Everything you might expect from a country store. You can find a gift or souvenir, buy a sun hat or a shovel. Perfectly curated The Country Store and Farm is worth a stop on your tour of Vashon Island.
The Country Store and Farm
Historic Mukai Farm
On my previous visits to Vashon I had not stopped at Mukai Farms. I was so glad we did this time. B.D. Denichiro Mukai arrived on Vashon in 1910 and became a successful berry grower and business man. Mukai purchased 60 acres of land in the center of Vashon in 1926, today the historic Mukai Farm. The farm is free for visitors to wander the gardens. This property has seen so much history and marks both an interesting and shameful past of anti-Japanese oppression, WWII exile, and the positive contribution of the innovative and hard working Japanese people of the island and the region.
Today the home is on the National Register of Historic Places and efforts are being made to restore the Cold Process Fruit Barrel Plant where the Mukai family created an innovative way of preserving and shipping fresh strawberries.
Mukai Farms Cold Press Barreling Facility
Welcome to Mukai
House and Gardens at Mukai Farms
Uptown
“Uptown” is the local name for the charming, compact downtown district on Vashon Island, situated along Vashon Highway SW. It serves as the island’s bustling hub, featuring locally-owned shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a key four-way stop.
Many shops and restaurants and plenty of parking
Vashon Books
Where to Eat
In past visits we have enjoyed delicious meals at The Hardware Store, but on this visit we decided to try something new. The Ruby Brink was amazing. Unpretentious exterior opens into a beautifully designed bar and restaurant that includes a butcher! We loved the country style terrine and I had the most delicious mortadella sandwich.
The Ruby Brink
Highly recommend The Ruby Brink
The Ruby Brink on Vashon Island
Great menu and beautiful setting at The Ruby Brink
And just around the corner don’t miss Dragon’s Head Cider Tasting Room. Excellent. They serve food too but we just enjoyed the tasty cider. Fresh and delicious with outdoor seating too.
Dragon’s Head Cider
Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island
Vashon Island is an easy half day or day trip, but you can also take it real slow and spend the night. It’s fun to arrive by one ferry like Southworth and depart by another like Fauntleroy. This is what we did on a loop from our home in Port Orchard then on to visit our son in Ballard. Plan your Vashon Island trip soon. Spring and Fall are my favorites – summer weekends can be busy so plan ahead for your ferry selection. See the Washington State Ferry schedule here.
Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will enjoy the laid back quiet experience that is Vashon Island.
Weaving together historical fiction and mystery through dual timelines, this is a story that is both intense and emotionally engaging. Here is my book review The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner.
London 1791 and Present Day
Set in 18th-century London and present-day England, the novel follows Nella, a secret apothecary who sells poisons to women seeking justice against harmful men. Our present day protagonists is Caroline, a modern historian who stumbles upon clues to Nella’s past. Penner’s vivid descriptions of the apothecary shop and its hidden world make me think about a movie set in the making, drawing readers into a richly imagined, dangerous world.
Female Oppression Then and Now
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its exploration of female agency and the ways women navigate oppression across different eras. Nella’s story is compelling and morally complex, raising questions about justice and revenge, while her young protege Eliza’s involvement adds an element of curiosity and coming-of-age tension. In contrast, Caroline’s modern storyline highlights themes of self-discovery and personal reinvention, as she realizes she has put her dreams on hold for her husband. Though a bit predictable, the alternating timelines are engaging.
Debut
I enjoyed this book and it’s very good given it is Penner’s debut novel. The blending of mystery and magic with historical intrigue and feminist themes is reminiscent of early works by V.E. Schwab. Fans of historical fiction with a touch of suspense will likely appreciate Penner’s storytelling and the haunting world she brings to life.
For years I have heard about Heronswood Gardens, less than an hour from my home on the Kitsap Peninsula. It’s one of those places you always are going to get to, but somehow for me it just had never happened. Until this month. I am happy to say I finally visited this unique and beautiful botanical gardens. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Heronswood Gardens.
Enjoying my first visit to Heronswood Gardens, Kingston Washington
History
Established in 1987 by horticulturist Dan Hinkley and architect Robert L. Jones, the world renowned 15-acre Botanical Garden sits hidden just outside of Kingston Washington. Known for rare plants collected from around the world by Hinkley and others, the gardens drew garden and plant lovers from around the globe.
Little treasures around every corner
In the year 2000 Heronswood was sold to W. Atlee Burpee Company, but fell into disrepair after the company’s 2006 bankruptcy. Neglected for six years, the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe purchased the property in 2012 and has brought it lovingly back to life, expanding it to 15 acres.
I loved the meandering paths of the Renaissance Garden
Heronswood Today
With the distinction of being the only botanic gardens in the U.S. owned and operated by a tribal nation, the Port Gamble S’Kallam Tribe has made it once again a thriving garden and a cherished part of the North Kitsap Community. Heronswood protects a vast array of plants from around the world, with over 8,000 different varieties spread across six distinct yet integrated gardens.
Heronswood is open to visitors from 9am-3pm Wednesday to Sunday (with different hours in the winter). Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Free for Heronswood Garden Members.
The Rock Garden
Events
Heronswood offers multiple events throughout the year including classes, kids events, holiday events and even yoga. One of the biggest events of the year is the annual Native Plant Sale. The day we visited Heronswood was to participate in this event. Multiple vendors provide unique and beautiful plants for garden lovers to purchase and take home. On the day of the Native Plant Sale, the gardens are open for free.
Hundreds of people lined up for the annual Native Plant Sale
A garden lovers paradise
Something for everyone
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Heronswood Gardens
Now that I have finally made my way to this hidden gem, I know I will be returning at least annually and maybe more. I am very interested to see how the gardens change throughout the seasons. It’s such a peaceful and beautiful treasure. Make time to see it yourself.
I spent seven years of my life proudly as a Girl Scout. In 1966 when I was six years old I became a Brownie. At eight or nine I became a Junior. I remember being so proud of wearing the official green uniform. At 12 I graduated to a Senior, but my family moved that year and my Girl Scout days faded. But I have fond memories so was interested in this history. It wasn’t what I was expecting. Here is my book review Intrepid Girls: The Complicated History of the Girl Scouts of the USA by Amy Erdman Farrell
That’s me in 1967. I proudly represented all Brownies from my Girl Scout Council in a flag ceremony for a statewide Girl Scout meeting.
Looking Back
This book opened my eyes to the inequalities that were prevalent in Girl Scouting, including in my own little troop. The book is a blend of history and personal narrative of the Girl Scouts in the United States.
Farrell traces how the Girl Scouts grew from a small movement founded in 1912 into a global institution . Drawing on extensive research and personal narrative, Farrell lays out the influence of more than 50 million girls and women. Highlighting the organization’s role in fostering confidence, leadership, and community. Farrell’s personal experience, like many young girls built a sense of belonging and empowerment during difficult periods of their lives.
The Race Role
At the same time, Farrell emphasizes that this history is “complicated”. The Girl Scouts have both challenged and reinforced social inequalities. The book examines how the organization navigated issues of race, class, feminism, and politics, including its involvement in segregated communities. Blatant racism was part of the early years while the organization segregated or did not allow black girls to participate. While the Girl Scouts created meaningful opportunities for many girls, it also reflected the discrimination present in broader American society.
Book Review Intrepid Girls: The Complicated History of the Girl Scouts of the USA by Amy Erdman Farrell
By presenting both its empowering impact and its contradictions, Intrepid Girls encourages readers to rethink the legacy of this iconic institution. And in today’s world, better understand how it has shaped—and been shaped by—American history. It certainly made me think about my own role in the organization, for better and for worse.
Thank you for reading my Book Review Intrepid Girls: The Complicated History of the Girl Scouts of the USA by Amy Erdman Farrell. Four stars for Intrepid Girls: The Complicated History of the Girl Scouts of the USA by Amy Erdman Farrell. See last week’s book review The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter.
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Growing up on the Kitsap Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest, a trip to Tacoma was a special treat. We made the trek to the Tacoma Mall a couple times a year, usually for school shopping and Christmas shopping. But I grew up not knowing anything else about Tacoma. Only years later as an adult have I discovered all of Tacoma’s treasures. Today in this post I want to share a little bit about Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District Tacoma.
View of Commencement Bay beyond the Stadium Bowl
Pretty Gritty Tours
First, a shout out to Pretty Gritty Tours. I have been following Chris from Pretty Gritty Tours for awhile on Instagram, and recently took the Stadium High School tour. Amazing! I learned so much about this beautiful and historic building, it inspired this post about Tacoma’s Stadium District. You need to check out all the tours and activities offered at Pretty Gritty Tours. I hope to do the Brewery Row Tour next. Pretty Gritty Tours is worth a follow not only for Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District Tacoma, but for so much more Tacoma treasures.
With my husband, our first time touring the iconic Stadium High School
A Bit of History
Tacoma’s Stadium District, anchored by the iconic 1906 “Brown Castle” (Stadium High School), evolved from a failed 1890s luxury hotel project into a vibrant historic neighborhood. Named for the 1910 Stadium Bowl—originally built in a ravine known as Old Woman’s Gulch—the district features grand residential architecture from 1888–1930 and classic neighborhood shops.
Well done history signage in the district
Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District
The Hotel that Wasn’t (1891–1893): The Northern Pacific Railroad began building a luxury hotel, but the economic panic of 1893 halted construction, leaving a massive, abandoned brick shell.
A New Purpose (1900s): Following a 1898 fire, the Tacoma School District acquired the building. Architect Frederick Heath redesigned it into Tacoma High School, opening in 1906.
Stadium Bowl (1910): The adjacent “stadium” was constructed in a ravine, originally holding 32,000 spectators for events ranging from presidential speeches to rodeos.
Residential Growth: Developed between 1888 and 1930, the surrounding district features early residential suburban architecture, with many homes overlooking Commencement Bay.
Today’s Charming Stadium District
Walkable, authentic and beautiful, today’s Stadium District is home to many North Tacoma residents, some of the city’s most beautiful historic homes and iconic views. Stadium District is close to Tacoma’s amazing Wright Park and W.W. Seymour Conservatory. Stadium High School, a cultural icon, gained fame as the filming location for the 1999 movie 10 Things I Hate About Youwith Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles.
So rare to see a locally owned and operated pharmacy anymore. This is Ranko’s Pharmacy at this corner since 1935.
The district remains a blend of history and commerce, home to long-standing spots like Ranko’s Pharmacy (since 1935), Parkway Tavern (since 1935), and Frisko Freeze (since 1950), as well as several other great restaurants.
A true hidden gem and local favorite, The Parkway Tavern since 1935
Stadium Thriftway has been a community staple since the early 1990s, occupying a building with a rich retail history. Originally a Safeway in the 1930s-40s, the site later operated as Arney’s, Big Bear in the 1950s-60s, and Lucky before becoming a Thriftway. Nearly 100 years of serving residents of the neighborhood.
Exceptional quality market Stadium Thriftway.
The “big church” in the Stadium District of Tacoma is the First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma. Completed in 1925, this landmark features a prominent 160-foot tower originally used to guide ships into the port, and is recognized for its Romanesque architecture.
First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma since 1925
Stadium High School
The Grande Dame of the neighborhood and the jewel of The Tacoma School District, Stadium High School underwent a major reconstruction in 2004. It is a registered national landmark and worth a visit with Pretty Gritty Tours. I can’t recommend that enough. Not only will you see every floor of the school you also will visit the attic and the basement. So very cool.
I highly recommend a tour of the beautiful Stadium High Scool
The original theater. A new larger theater was built nearby.
Lucky kids go to this beautiful school
Stadium High School Tigers
The entrance to the attic in Stadium High School
Stadium is impressive from every angle
Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District
Tacoma is a beautiful city often overlooked by it’s larger neighbor Seattle. It’s time for you to discover Tacoma’s Treasures, including the Stadium District. I have written a lot about Tacoma over the years, and there is much more to this manageable city. You can type Tacoma into the search bar and find more suggestions including this one covering much of Tacoma’s Hidden Gems.
If you liked Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt I think you would enjoy meeting a unique and thoughtful Tortoise who reflects on her long life and the humans she encounters. Here is my Book Review The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter
Through the Eyes of a Giant Tortoise
Coulter gives us a thoughtful and imaginative exploration of perspective, patience, and resilience. Centering on a tortoise who reflects on its own experiences moving slowly through a fast-paced world. Readers will be pulled into a meaningful critique of how speed and productivity are often overvalued among humans. Through calm narrative tone, Coulter invites readers to reconsider what it means to live well, suggesting that observation, persistence, and quiet determination can be just as powerful as quick action.
Long Life Well Lived
Our tortoise friend lives a very long life, as giant tortoises will, and we follow her story from her capture in her homeland to her new life on a Southern California estate. Slowly and daily she observes the animals, birds, flowers and humans who come and go over a century. Beyond its surface as a simple tale, the book carries deeper philosophical undertones about time, self-worth, and the natural world. Coulter uses the tortoise as a symbolic figure to challenge societal norms, encouraging readers to appreciate different rhythms of life and to find value in slowing down.
Book Review The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter
I found this novel a pleasant surprise. **** Four stars for The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter. Thank you for reading my book review The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter. See last week’s book review Served Him Right by Lisa Unger.
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Hidden in Fife Washington just off the I-5 corridor is a marvelous Ukrainian/European Market waiting to be discovered. What an unexpected treat to find this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Emish Market.
Hidden Gem Emish Market in Fife
Authentic
Opened in 2021, this beautiful market offers a wide range of imported Ukrainian and European foods. In addition, the in-house bakery is pumping out traditional breads and sweets and is a definite hidden gem. But there is more! House made sausage, beautiful flowers and produce, and a popular deli and lunch spot not to be missed.
Beautiful Produce
Incredible Bakery
Wide selection of Ukrainian and European imported foods
What’s for lunch?
We came for lunch and went away full and satisfied. Eastern European specialties like Borscht and Pirogi (two of my favorites) as well as Shawarma, sushi, soups, quiche and much more. Such a surprise and all very reasonably priced. See the cafe menu here. The guests enjoying lunch in the small cafe were conversing in several European languages, so you know it must be authentic if it’s drawing that crowd.
Excellent Borscht
I’m a big fan of Pirogi. It’s hard to make at home and now I know where to get it!
The Emish Cafe
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market
I don’t get to Fife often, it’s one of those places you fly by on the freeway. But now I have a new reason to visit Fife and the fun and delicious Emish Market. I hope you will check it out too. Bring your appetite!
Wow. I wanted one of each.
Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market. We are happy to be back sharing about the wonderful Pacific Northwest after a few months off. More PNW posts coming soon!
Once again I am working with MB Communications, who have provided this book to me gratis in exchange for my honest review.This novel was released March 10, 2026.
Served Him Right by Lisa Unger
This novel suffers from an identity crisis. Is it a murder mystery? Or fantasy magical genre? Or something right out of the Real Housewives? I didn’t hate this book, but I didn’t love it either and I had trouble following the plot at times.
Vengeance
At the core of the story is vengeance. When an innocent brunch with the girls turns into a whodunit. Ana Blacksmith starts her day with girlfriends, celebrating her recent breakup with boyfriend Paul. But when the police come knocking, Ana, well known for her bad girl traits, finds herself the key suspect in Paul’s unexpected demise.
Secrets and Lies
As the story unfolds we learn that others at the brunch and beyond may have held grudges against Paul. And through out the story weaves a secret network of ancient magical methods used to obtain justice. A family trait of the Blacksmith family puts Ana and her sister Vera in the middle of knowing too much and wanting to know who really killed Paul and why.
Whodunnit
Unger’s latest novel I am sure will be on the best seller list like much of her work. But it’s not my style unfortunately. That said, there are many readers who would not be able to put it down…the plot can be a page turner, for the right reader.
I am now seven weeks into my Total Knee Replacement (TKR) journey. Boy oh boy this is hard. If you are considering TKR, I recommend you talk to many different people, because everyone recovers differently. But if I can be of help by telling you my story, I am glad to. Let’s talk about Total Knee Replacement – My Journey.
Decisions, Decisions
What brought on my need for TKR? Well at 66 years old I can only assume it was a collection of many things; high school cheer leading, high heel shoes in my twenties and thirties, running half marathons in my fifties and sixties. All of these or just one of them could be factors in the onset of arthritis and the demise of the cartilage in my right knee.
Me in high school as a cheerleader
The pain in my knee began several weeks after I completed a half marathon. I did not have pain leading up to that run or during that run. It came on suddenly several weeks after. I rested, iced and stopped running for a few months. But the pain continued. Over a period of two years I had several cortisone shots and one hyaluronic acid shot and did a lot of physical therapy. My attempts to get back to running only brought the pain back. And so it was time to make some decisions.
I Love Running
The realization that I was no longer a runner was a mental and emotional blow to me. I love to run. It is therapy for me. It also provided me the activity I needed to lose and maintain weight loss. I felt healthier in my early sixties than I had my entire life. But the pain was too much. I decided on surgery.
Running in my fifties
Nearing the finish line, one of dozens of half marathons I ran
But as soon as I stopped running, and was doing long walks instead, most of the pain subsided. I kept wondering if I could delay surgery longer. How much longer? Since we travel so much, I was concerned about unexpected crippling pain while I was abroad. I just didn’t think I should take the chance. So, we blocked out six months for me to tackle the surgery.
I continued to golf last summer wearing a brace
I also did a lot of hiking on my favorite mountain last summer wearing a brace
Listen
Yes you should listen to your doctor. You should also listen to people you know who have been through TKR. And most of all you should listen to your body. Despite the fact that I am generally in very good shape, and have a normal positive outlook, I still have had a difficult recovery from surgery. Everyone is different. While some people are walking around at two weeks and driving at three, other people are still struggling at 4 months or more. Don’t assume anything, your body will tell you what kind of recovery you will have. Dig in and work hard. Don’t rush.
All smiles before the pain killers wore off on the day of my surgery
What I learned
I learned that my usual high pain tolerance would be put to the test with this invasive and difficult surgery.
I learned that the first 48 hours would be the easiest of the entire journey and that week two and three would be the worst.
I learned that pain killers are your friend, and don’t try to be macho and not take them. This surgery is by far the most painful thing I have ever done.
I learned working hard ahead of surgery on quad strength is imperative, and doing pre-hab physical therapy is a really good idea.
What my very swollen knee looked like on day two
I learned that everyone is different – a buckling of the knee post surgery has plagued me since the beginning. This is unusual but not unheard of and has caused me a longer recovery.
I learned how much I would need my home caregiver for so many things, especially in the first few weeks. My husband has been an angel and I salute those of you who have recovered without a live in mate.
My knee at week six
I learned that constant physical therapy starting immediately after surgery is painful but necessary. Slow but steady progress will come out of that work. I do PT at a clinic twice a week and at home 2-3 times a day. It’s important to be dedicated to this work no matter how much it hurts.
What’s Next?
I plan to continue my physical therapy into July…four months after surgery. Why? Luckily I have good insurance that will allow me that, and because I want to be as strong and as normal as possible by the end of the summer. We plan to start international travel again on September 1st. My entire focus is being ready by that date.
Week five trying to do normal things. That’s my son with me in Seattle.
I don’t expect to be perfect by then, generally recovery continues for most people up to a year. But by September 1st I want to be walking properly, hiking carefully and able to endure a long flight. These are my goals, for my travel life, my future health and a Total Knee Replacement- My Journey.
Total Knee Replacement – My Journey
I am grateful to all my friends and family who have reached out with love and kindness. And grateful to those of you who have inquired to my journey, asked questions and are interested in my story. This blog post is for you. Happy to answer any questions in the comments or in a private message.
Thanks as always for you continued love and support.
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